DXB Entertainments H1: steady financial progress as footfall soars

DXB Entertainments, the owner and operator of Dubai Parks and Resorts, have seen improvements to revenue and reduced EBITDA losses, as footfall soars.

DXB saw 1,463,477 visitors in the first half of 2018 compared to 1,000,812 in the same period last year – an increase of 46%.

Lapita™ Hotel average occupancy also rose. H1 2018 average occupancy was 55%, compared to 24% in H1 2017: an increase of 128%.

Despite the increased footfall, revenue for the first half rose by a modest 3%. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) continued to be at a loss.

EBITDA loss improved significantly by 63% compared to the same period last year. This was thanks to visitation growth and cost efficiencies. The National reports that DXB will now review its future expansion plans following the narrowing of their losses.

H1 2018 revenue was AED 289 million, compared to AED 279 million the first half of 2017.

Operational highlights

Mohamed Almulla, CEO and Managing Director, said: “The business is making good financial and operational progress under our clearly defined strategy. Our primary focus is on driving footfall, generating repeat visitation through a simplified pricing structure and increasing brand awareness through targeted marketing initiatives. We attracted 1.46 million visits in the first half of the year, an increase of 46% compared to the same period last year.”

Last year, DXB Entertainments announced the completion of anoperational restructure with its theme park division combining with its retail and hospitality division. The merging of the divisions came only six months after they were created. In August last year, the company announced it was splitting its business into three units. Those are theme parks, retail and hospitality, and marketing.

Dubai Parks and Resorts alsosigned an exclusive agreement with Dubai Airports. The theme park destination will be featured at all the Dubai Airport terminals. They will reach over 88 million passengers travelling through Dubai Airport annually. The complex also recently announced a partnership with the Emirates airline, offering customers exclusive bundled offers.

Strategy moving forward

Mohamed Almulla said: “Looking ahead, we will continue to grow visitation from our key markets in the UAE,GCC and internationally, whilst also focusing on enhancing the visitor experience to
deliver on DXB Entertainments’ long-term strategy.”

This strategy includes plans to enhance Bollywood Parks Dubai. The company will increase the number of rides with a focus on family friendly rides. The company will also enhance the theming and entertainment within the park.

In the first half, international visitors made up 38% of total visits with the largest contributors coming from the MENA, GCC and the Indian subcontinent.

More shows and events are planned at Riverland Dubai, which is 82% leased, to encourage repeat visits from locals.

Other initiatives moving forward include trialing new ticketing models for Bollywood Parks Dubai. It will focus on providing different price options for the consumer such as a pay-as-you-go model.

The company will also review future expansion plans. This will include a review of Six Flags Dubai, its new theme parkexpected to open in 2019, to determine scope and timelines.

Michael Mander

I am a journalist from Essex, England. I enjoy travelling, and love exploring attractions around the world. I graduated from Lancaster University in 2018. Twitter @michael_mander.